What is the tongue weight of the Subaru OEM hitch?
When it comes to towing with your Subaru, understanding the tongue weight of the OEM hitch is crucial for safe and efficient towing. Tongue weight refers to the downward force exerted by the trailer on the hitch of your vehicle. This article will explain what tongue weight is, why it matters, and provide specific details about Subaru OEM hitches.
What is Tongue Weight?
The tongue weight is the amount of weight that the trailer applies to the hitch of your vehicle. It is typically measured as a percentage of the trailer's total weight. For most trailers, the tongue weight should be about 10-15% of the trailer's total weight. Proper tongue weight ensures stability while towing and prevents issues like trailer sway or loss of control.
Why is Tongue Weight Important?
Maintaining the correct tongue weight is essential for several reasons:
- Safety: Incorrect tongue weight can lead to trailer sway, making it difficult to control your vehicle.
- Vehicle Performance: Excessive tongue weight can strain your vehicle's suspension and drivetrain, while too little can reduce traction on the rear wheels.
- Legal Compliance: Exceeding the recommended tongue weight can violate towing regulations and void warranties.
The Tongue Weight of Subaru OEM Hitches
Subaru OEM hitches are designed to meet the specific towing requirements of Subaru vehicles. The tongue weight capacity of these hitches varies depending on the model of the vehicle and the hitch itself. For most Subaru OEM hitches, the tongue weight capacity is typically around 200-350 pounds. However, it is essential to check your vehicle's owner's manual or consult with your local Subaru dealership to confirm the exact specifications for your model.
How to Measure Tongue Weight
If you're unsure about the tongue weight of your trailer, you can measure it using the following steps:
- Use a tongue weight scale or a regular bathroom scale placed under the trailer's coupler.
- Ensure the trailer is level when measuring for accurate results.
- Compare the measured weight to the recommended tongue weight range for your vehicle and hitch.
Conclusion
Understanding and maintaining the correct tongue weight is vital for safe towing with your Subaru. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific guidelines and ensure your trailer's tongue weight falls within the recommended range for your Subaru OEM hitch. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact Kevin's Autos for expert advice and support!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you exceed hitch tongue weight?
If you don't have enough weight on the trailer tongue, the trailer may be prone to swaying from side to side, making it difficult to control. Conversely, if you have too much weight exerted on the hitch ball, the force could overload the rear tires of the tow vehicle and push the rear end of the vehicle around.
Does hitch weight equal tongue weight?
Vehicles equipped with a factory installed hitch almost always specify the maximum tongue weight or tongue weight capacity (TWC) for both your vehicle and your hitch, and they are generally the same.
What size hitch does a Subaru have?
Subaru hitches are engineered to the same rigorous standards as the rest of the Outback. Heavy-duty 2-inch receiver is rated at 3,500 lbs.
Is 20% tongue weight too much?
If the tongue weight it too much -- greater than 15% -- your vehicle may become less responsive, especially when turning and braking. Properly loading your trailer -- placing cargo in front of or behind the axle -- can have a major effect on tongue weight.
What is the tongue weight of a Subaru hitch?
Subaru recommends tongue weight is between 8 and 11 percent of trailer weight.
What is the hitch weight of the Subaru Forester?
Subaru Forester models from 2014 to 2024 offer the same base towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. The 2022 redesign of this iconic SUV offered an optional Class II tow hitch receiver, which increases your towing capacity from 1,500 pounds to 3,000 pounds when properly equipped.
What is the tongue weight of the Subaru Outback 3.6 R?
Related: Q&A
| Engine/Trim Level | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | Tongue Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cylinder | 2,700 | 200 |
| 3.6L 6-cylinder | 3,000 | 300 |
What is the tongue weight of the 2024 Forester wilderness?
tongue weight. Trailer Hitch for Forester Wilderness rated at 3,000 lbs. towing capacity, 300 lbs. tongue weight.
How do I know my hitch weight limit?
Your hitch's maximum tow weight rating can usually be found on a label on the hitch itself.
What is the weight rating of the Trailer Hitch on a Subaru Outback?
Equip your 2024 Outback with genuine Subaru accessories designed for towing: Trailer Hitch: 270-pound tongue weight and 2,700-pound towing capacity for the 2.5L engine, 350-pound tongue weight and 3,500-pound towing capacity for the 2.4L turbocharged engine.
